Local designer creates ‘PEN’demic challenge
The PENdemic Challenge was an incentive to be creative with old school pen and paper during lockdown.
SINCE the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, millions across the globe have come up with ways of staying connected while also maintaining social distancing. One of those who has created a bridge with residents in the area is Durban North graphic designer, Mary Murray.
She took part in the PENdemic Challenge where she hand drew 35 illustrations during the lockdown period.
“The PENdemic Challenge was an incentive to be creative with old school pen and paper during lockdown. It was originally for three weeks – but then got extended to five. I’ve been a graphic designer for nearly 17 years and I’ve always loved drawing though I’m a bit rusty. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this challenge because I drew whatever I felt like, loosely tying them to the theme of lockdown.
“Some days were low, and the illustrations showed it. But some were light-hearted. I got a lot of positive feedback and grew a tiny fan base who anticipated my daily posts. I like to think my illustrations were relatable and I tried to incorporate humour (on my less-gloomy days). It’s been a difficult time for everyone, and insomnia has been the topic of a few of my drawings,” Murray explained.
Each illustration took Murray between three and six hours and she said would like to keep drawing now that the country has moved to level 4.
“I probably won’t post a daily drawing as I had been doing. We don’t know when we’ll go back to life BC (Before Corona), so who knows how long the PENdemic Challenge could last,” she said.
To view the various PENdemic illustrations visit www.realmary.com.
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